“prosper the work of our hands!” (ps 90:17)
“If you would hearken to My commandments, your prosperity would be like a river.” —Isaiah 48:18
Often the readings of Advent speak of an unimaginable richness and plenty. God is not a puny God; He is mighty and abundant. He is a God Who blesses and offers life to the full (Jn 10:10). God comes to give us freedom, love, the gifts of the Spirit, power, joy, and “every spiritual blessing in the heavens!” (Eph 1:3)
There is undoubtedly a daily cross and a share of suffering to bear in following the Lord Jesus Christ (Lk 9:23; 1 Pt 4:1). Yet the Advent readings, and particularly today’s readings, speak of prosperity as a blessing from God:
- If you obey My commandments, your prosperity will flow like a river — constantly and free-flowing (Is 48:18).
- If you meditate on God’s Word day and night, then whatever you do will prosper (Ps 1:2-3).
Despite suffering, persecution, and faith as small as a mustard seed, God promises that if we devote ourselves to the study of His Word and obey Him, we will prosper. Do you want your ministry, family, and parenting to prosper with the blessings of God? Obey Him and make your home in His Word.
Prayer: Father, may I obey You out of love, not simply to gain Your blessings. I do trust that You will bless and reward me in Your overflowing mercy (Heb 10:35; 11:6; 2 Jn 8).
Promise: “Time will prove where wisdom lies.” —Mt 11:19
Praise: Pope Francis established the feast of Our Lady of Loreto in 2019. The decree stated, “This celebration will help all people…to imitate the virtues of that perfect disciple of the Gospel, the Virgin Mother.”
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
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